There'll be more space for the winners to celebrate at Cheltenham Racecourse when the new season begins later this week.

A bigger presentation podium has been built, reflecting the materials used in the Princess Royal Stand.

The winners enclosure, which is part of the parade ring, has also been enlarged which will help ease capacity particularly during The Festival.

Racing returns to the track on Friday and Saturday for The Showcase meeting.

Simon Claisse, Regional Head of Racing South West and clerk of the course said: "The new presentation podium and enlarged winners enclosure will make for a more comfortable environment for connections after races at Cheltenham, particularly during The Festival.

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"With a significant number of horses owned by syndicates, the increased space will enable as many people as possible to experience the thrill of winning at the Home of Jump Racing."

This week's fixture marks the beginning of the year for many horses and some may eventually return for The Festival – Cheltenham’s shining jewel in its crown - in March.

Among the entries are Sceau Royal, the Champion Hurdle sixth, who recently made a successful start to life over the bigger obstacles.

He's one of 12 entries for Friday's £25,000 Squareintheair.com Novices' Chase, where he could face Betfair Hurdle runner-up Movewiththetimes and North Hill Harvey, the winner of the Stanjames.com Greatwood Hurdle in 2016.